Asthma is the most common chronic illness in childhood,
accounting for 13.8 million missed school days each year. It also
accounts for 14.2 million lost work days for adults.3

The estimated economic cost of asthma is $56 billion
annually.4

Almost 3,600 people die of asthma each year, nearly half of
whom are age 65 or older. Recent statistics show that half of people
with asthma have at least one asthma attack each year, with children
(57 percent) more likely to have an attack than adults (51 percent).2, 4

Asthma symptoms can be triggered by exposure to an allergen
(such as ragweed, pollen, animal
dander or dust
mites), irritants in the air (such as smoke, chemical fumes
or strong odors) or extreme weather conditions. Exercise or an
illness – particularly a respiratory illness or the
flu – can also make you
more susceptible.

Asthma is often hereditary.

Weather conditions such as extremely dry, wet or windy
weather can worsen an asthma condition.

Effective asthma treatment includes monitoring the disease
with a peak flow meter, identifying and avoiding allergen triggers,
using drug therapies including bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory
agents, and developing an emergency plan for severe attacks.

There are two types of asthma medications: long-term
control and quick-relief medications. Long-term control medications are
preventive, taken daily to achieve and maintain control of asthma
symptoms. Quick-relief medications are used to treat asthma attacks.
They relieve symptoms rapidly and are taken on an as-needed
basis.

One of the most effective medications for controlling
asthma is inhaled corticosteroids, which are anti-inflammatory
medications. Taken early and as directed, these well-tolerated and safe
medications can improve asthma control and normalize lung
function.

Immunotherapy or allergy shots should be considered if
asthma is triggered by exposure to unavoidable allergens, or if
symptoms occur three days a week and more than two nights a month. The
shots are especially helpful when symptoms occur year-round or are not
easily controlled with medication.

Allergists are the medical specialists with the most
expertise in treating asthma. An allergist can find the source of your
suffering and stop it. To find an allergist, visit
AllergyAndAsthmaRelief.org.